MUMBAI: In a major embarrassment for the Maharashtra government on Shaheed Day (Martyrs’ Day, March 23), Bhagat Singh’s photo in traditional attire of pagdi (turban) and beard was labelled as Sukhdev.
Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and three officials paid tribute to the photo in an official programme. The government did not realise the mistake and also sent the wrong photos as an official press release on the same day. Condemning the act, social activists have demanded an apology from the CM and immediate suspension of the officials for the goof-up.
On Shaheed Day, the government placed two photos of Bhagat Singh, one with a cap and no beard, and the other in a traditional Punjabi turban and beard, while the third photo was of Rajguru — the trio respected for its contribution to the freedom movement.
The other photo of Bhagat Singh was labelled Sukhdev. In the photograph that was circulated by the government to the press, shows the CM, chief secretary Swadhin Kshatriya, general administration department additional chief secretary P.S. Meena and director general of DGIPR paying tributes to the wrong photos.
The government has sought an explanation from the officials for the goof-up. When asked if any action was taken in the matter, Mr Kshatriya said, “An explanation has been sought from the additional chief secretary on the issue.”
However, communist leader Prakash Reddy demanded an apology from the CM and suspension of the officials. “This is highly insulting to the martyrs. The CM should apologise and suspend the officials for the grave mistake, he said.
